Here is how these two sleeping pads compare on the numbers. They score within a hair of each other, so it comes down to the details below.
| Therm-a-Rest ProLite Apex | NEMO Flyer | |
|---|---|---|
| GearScore | 77✓ | 77 |
| Warmth (R-value) | 3.8 R | 4.2 R✓ |
| Weight | 22.0 oz | 21.0 oz✓ |
| Warmth-to-weight | 0.61 R/100g | 0.71 R/100g✓ |
| Packed size | 6.56 L | 5.43 L✓ |
| Thickness | 2.0 in✓ | 2.0 in |
| Durability | 52 /100✓ | 12 /100 |
| Price | $135✓ | $140 |
| Features | 1Two-way valve | 1Repair kit included |
| Type | Self-inflating | Self-inflating |
| Shape | Mummy | Mummy |
Highlighted cells mark the better spec: ProLite Apex in blue, Flyer in amber. A blank spec is never counted as a win. GearScore is the rating for the Overall use-case (0 to 100). Pick another above to re-score. Prices are current MSRP.
The Therm-a-Rest ProLite Apex against the NEMO Flyer is a study in priorities. They are close enough that this really is about which handful of specs you weight most.
The ProLite Apex is thicker for more cushion, more durable, and $5 cheaper. The Flyer is warmer (R 4.2 vs R 3.8), 1 oz lighter, and stronger on warmth-to-weight. Their GearScores land within a couple of points (77 vs 77), so neither runs away with it.
Pick the ProLite Apex if you care most about cushion and durability, which makes it the better call for comfort and room to move. Pick the Flyer if warmth and low weight matter more to you, or you are focused on colder nights and shoulder-season trips.
The NEMO Flyer. It is warmer (R 4.2 vs R 3.8) than the ProLite Apex.
The NEMO Flyer. It is 1 oz lighter than the ProLite Apex.
They are nearly tied at 77 and 77 on the default algorithm, so re-weight the score to your own priorities to break the tie.
It depends on your priorities. Go with the ProLite Apex for cushion, or the Flyer for warmth. The spec table above shows exactly where each wins.